Hacking happiness

Meg Elphick is here to help you make the most of your hacking time

Summer is the perfect time to go hacking – the sun is shining, the sky is blue and the ground is (usually) perfect for a gallop. But whether you have all the time in the world during the holidays or your hack needs to be short and sweet, here’s how to maximise your pony adventure time.

Overcoming hurdles

Exploring with your pony is a fab way to boost your relationship and build your trust. When you’re out and about, you’re sure to come across lots of different things – some spookier than others. By encouraging him past unfamiliar objects, such as bins, bikes or dogs, and rewarding him when he’s been brave, he’ll have more confidence that you’ll help him through any difficult or nerve-wracking situations. Plus, you’ll be sooo proud of him for overcoming his fears!

Fun in the sun

Soaking up the summer sun is one the best things about hacking in the warmer months and spending time with friends makes it a total dream! Hacking with pals gives you the perfect opportunity to discuss the latest goss, plan post-ride sleepovers and chat about all things ponies. You could make your adventures even more awesome by scheduling in an ice-cream stop or picnic – yum!

TOP TIP

Be safe, be seen! You and your pony should wear at least one item of high-vis each to make sure you’re visible to others, whether or not your hacking route involves roads.

Simple schooling

If your pony gets bored trotting around and around the arena, you could incorporate some simple schooling exercises into your hacking time! You could try leg-yielding along a bridlepath, riding a transition at each fence post you go past, or test your pony’s straightness across an open field.

It’s likely your pony will be more forward going when he’s hacking because he’ll love being out and about, so put his energy to good use and get some dressage practice in! Be sure to mix it up, though, so you don’t just school him on every hack – he’ll enjoy a leisurely ride once in a while, too!

Make the most of your hacking time with more help from Meg Elphick in July PONY – grab your copy today!